For over 20 years, Billy’s teaching and research have focused on innovative curriculum design with a particular emphasis on experiential education and service-learning. His work in these areas has resulted in a number of leadership roles, peer-reviewed publications, external research funding grants, consultancies, and presentations around the world.

After the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes in Christchurch, he created a course at the University of Canterbury, CHCH101: Rebuilding Christchurch, that was linked to the actions of the Student Volunteer Army. In addition to his role as the Associate Professor of Community Engagement, he also leads Te Pokapū Pāhekoheko Hapori, the University of Canterbury Community Engagement Hub.

Among Billy’s experiences prior to the University of Canterbury, he was an Assistant Professor at North Carolina State University, served as a Peace Corps administrator, created and directed an intermediate school, taught English at a secondary school in Tennessee and two community colleges in California, guided white water raft trips in California, and facilitated multi-cultural education programs in Brazil and Tennessee. Billy, his wife, Susan, two daughters, Lawson (19 years old) and Stewart (16 years old), moved to New Zealand in 2005 and enjoy the outdoor activities that are immediately available in this beautiful country.